Even the smallest chip out of your car’s glass can easily spread across your entire windshield or window ultimately resulting in the need to replace the entire piece of glass. This type of spreading damage can turn a very affordable repair into a much more expensive endeavor. That is why you should always get your auto glass repaired as quickly as possible once the damage occurs. Unfortunately, sometimes life gets in the way and you are not able to head directly to a repair shop. In this situation, there are a few things that you can do to help prevent the damage from spreading until you are able to get your auto glass repaired. The three tips you will find below can help you in accomplishing this goal.  

Tip #1: Use Clear Tape To Help Reinforce The Glass

Even a small chip can compromise the strength of your auto glass. In order to help prevent this damage from spreading you will want to provide strength by reinforcing the glass using heavy-duty clear tape. This tape should be applied to both sides of the glass where the damage occurred and should extend at least a few inches beyond the damage. This tip should only be used if the damage is out of your direct line of sight since even clear tape can interfere with your ability to see properly. If the damage is in your line of sight you will need to get the glass repaired before driving the vehicle again. This does not completely fix the glass, however, and should not be used as a substitute for a professional repair.

Tip #2: Avoid Traveling At High Speeds

The faster your vehicle is going, the more pressure the wind will exert on your glass. This pressure can cause any glass damage to spread and can even result in your windshield shattering if the strength of the glass has been compromised. That is why you should try your hardest to avoid traveling at high speeds until you are able to get your auto glass repaired. 

Tip #3: Avoid Extreme Temperature Changes To The Glass

Extreme temperature changes can cause your auto glass to expand or contract at a rapid rate. This can increase the chances of your auto glass damage spreading. In order to avoid this issue you will want to minimize the use of heat or air conditioning directly on your damaged glass. If you must use your defrost setting, consider using the lowest possible setting and allowing a longer period of time for the glass to defrost. 

A Final Thought

While the tips above can help to reduce the risk of your glass damage spreading, there is no way to guarantee that this damage will not spread. Furthermore, these tips are only intended to help you prevent spreading damage in the short term. Consequently, you will need to have your auto glass repaired as quickly as possible. The use of mobile auto glass repair services can often make these types of quick repairs far more convenient regardless of how busy your schedule may be.

To learn more, contact an auto glass repair service in your area.